Nebraska Farmer Glenn Cook Celebrates 100th Birthday

A lifetime spanning a full century, Glenn's story reflects the resilience, faith, and quiet determination that define so many of the Great Plains' earliest generations.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Glenn Cook, a 100-year-old farmer from Culbertson, Nebraska, is celebrating his milestone birthday on February 25, 2026. Born in 1926, Glenn's life has been shaped by the rhythms of farm life, the hardships of the Great Depression, and his deep faith and family ties. Throughout his century, Glenn has remained dedicated to farming, his church community, and his loved ones.

Why it matters

Glenn's story is a testament to the enduring spirit and values of the Great Plains region, where hard work, faith, and family have sustained generations through times of prosperity and adversity. As a centenarian who has witnessed a century of change, Glenn's life provides a unique perspective on the evolution of rural American life.

The details

Glenn was born on a farm near Culbertson, Nebraska in 1926. He grew up surrounded by a large, supportive extended family, helping his father in the fields from a young age and contributing to the family's daily survival through chores and farm work. Glenn vividly remembers the hardships of the Great Depression and the drought years, as well as national events like the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Farming remained central to Glenn's identity throughout his life, and he also worked at a meatpacking plant in Omaha during the winters. In 1950, Glenn enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving until 1952 and spending time in Japan. One of his proudest accomplishments was helping build the Church of God in the 1950s and 1970s. Glenn met his wife Anita at a Bible school, and together they raised three sons and have seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

  • Glenn Cook was born on February 25, 1926.
  • The devastating Republican River flood occurred in 1935.
  • Glenn enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1950 and served until 1952.
  • Glenn helped build the Church of God in the 1950s and 1970s.
  • Glenn is celebrating his 100th birthday on February 25, 2026.

The players

Glenn Cook

A 100-year-old farmer from Culbertson, Nebraska who is celebrating his milestone birthday in 2026.

Anita Cook

Glenn's wife, whom he met at a Bible school in Gordon, Nebraska.

Gene Cook

Glenn's older brother.

Bonnie Cook

Glenn's younger sister.

Rodney, Kenyon, and Lance Cook

Glenn and Anita's three sons.

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What they’re saying

“That I am still alive — and in good health.”

— Glenn Cook (The Big Sandy Mountaineer)

“Heredity has one thing to do with it.”

— Glenn Cook (The Big Sandy Mountaineer)

What’s next

Glenn's 100th birthday celebration on February 25, 2026 will likely draw a large crowd of friends, family, and community members to honor his lifetime of faith, family, and hard work.

The takeaway

Glenn Cook's life story is a testament to the enduring values and resilience of the Great Plains region, where generations have weathered economic hardship, natural disasters, and the changing tides of history through unwavering faith, family, and a steadfast commitment to the land.